Ruth Messinger Statement on the Passing of Edgar Bronfman

NEW YORK, NY — Ruth Messinger, president of American Jewish World Service (AJWS), released the following statement today in response to the passing of Edgar Bronfman.

“We have lost a pioneering Jewish leader and visionary,” said Messinger. “There are few philanthropists who have had a more enduring influence on Jewish life than Edgar Bronfman. His investments in young leaders, his passion for Jewish learning, and his unshakeable commitment to human dignity for Jews around the world have paved the way for a vibrant Jewish future. The depth and value of his contributions are felt at American Jewish World Service and at countless other organizations he supported, including the World Jewish Congress, Hillel, MyJewishLearning.com, Keshet, and the Foundation for Jewish Camp. I know that Edgar’s legacy will continue to live on in his family, in the Samuel Bronfman Foundation and in the community to which he devoted his life.”

Ruth Messinger was one of New York City’s most prominent politicians in the 1980s and 1990s before she took the helm of a respected but low-profile nonprofit focused on international development: the American Jewish World…